IMMIGRATION, REFORM, AND THE AMERICAN DREAM

As Americans, we pride ourselves on our home being “land of the free”, and we broadcast the idea of living the dream- the “American dream”, that is, having a nice home on with a white picket fence, darling children, and a golden retriever in the yard. We advertise this as the American way and encourage the rest of the world to do the same. Yet, when others travel from their home countries to find this dream for themselves, many are denied. As a result, many people cross borders without inspection and remain in the U.S. on undocumented status.

What can the U.S. do to gain better control of this problem? Back in November of 2014, President Barack Obama implemented new and innovative forms of relief for immigrants in the United States who were otherwise subject to deportation. Many had been living in the United States for many years, raising families and giving birth to U.S. citizens, as well as working hard, paying taxes, and building their dreams.

President Barack Obama’s immigration reform consists of three simple methods for the U.S. to regulate immigration in more efficient manner than the previous, outdated standing policies. First, President Obama sought to increase activity within border patrol units to safely secure our borders. Secondly, to allow immigrants without criminal backgrounds to apply for U.S. citizenship. Lastly, to create a system of security by implementing routine background checks to promote safety in U.S. communities.

Although these proposals seem manageable, some don't believe they will work; this indecision is reflected in the United States’ Supreme Court’s stance on the issue as well. The Court recently voted on the President’s immigration reforms and were unable to reach a decision, with the vote being split with a 4-4. This Court’s standstill could result in up to 4 million immigrants being deported back to their home countries, without consideration for how long they have lived in the U.S. or if they have U.S.-born children.

Does the Supreme Court’s standstill affect you or your loved ones? If so, each case and client is unique, and the immigration attorneys at SmithLopezCunningham LLP will assess your individual circumstance to provide you with the most fitting legal options available.

Cunningham Lopez LLP

Cunningham Lopez LLP is a Chicago law firm that specializes in a wide range of practice areas. Our attorneys are experienced in individual representation matters such as divorce, immigration, and personal injury. Our diverse legal backgrounds allow us to examine our cases from a variety of perspectives to achieve the best result possible.